Since 1950, the Dobson family has kept their predominantly Texas-based burger chain privately owned. It is something they proudly display on the windows of the restaurants, “Family Owned.” Not any longer.
Technically what Harmon Dobson’s offspring have done is sell a majority interest to an outside group in exchange for an infusion of capital to expand beyond the 800 locations they have, mostly in Texas. These people based in Chicago allegedly know what they’re doing, they’re involved with the overrated Krispy Kreme, yuck!
There has been the usual, predictable lamenting from loudmouthed Texans bitching about Yankees taking over their beloved, unique burger place. They’re quickly forgetting how the Dobsons and company made this decision, nobody forced it.
I do agree it may be a mistake in the end. Given Climate Change alongside changing tastes, does America need yet another national chain focused on hamburgers given McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Burger King, Hardee’s/Carl’s Jr., Jack in the Box, White Castle, Fuddruckers, Red Robin, Steak n’ Shake, Freddy’s, Culver’s, Chili’s and Applebee’s (if I forgot any others, tell me)? Sure, Whataburger definitely has a Texas-based appeal via the menu, especially through its toppings and speciality items. I just don’t see Midwesterners, which I am one originally, being excited to try something they already have had since the Fifties.
Should one come to your non-Texas neck of the woods, please give Whataburger a try. I recommend the double with cheese and bacon, mustard all the way.